Inspired by the concept of vertically managed hot water systems, Garey Willbanks and his brother co-founded TEAL in 2004. Together, they launched the TEAL System, the first of its kind, in February 2005, transforming their idea of modernized central plants into a reality for owners, developers, and investors. With Garey’s drive to reimagine traditional hot water systems, the TEAL team currently manages over 80,000 multifamily units across 13 states.
Garey grew up in the hot water industry, as a 13-year-old spending his summers at a shop modifying and preparing boilers and hot water equipment for installation. Just three years after starting in the field, Garey, a teenager in high school, was running a boiler service truck on weekends and after school. With his enterprising and technical skill long evident, 27-year-old Garey and his brother, Greg, purchased their father’s business, Willbanks & Associates, Inc., a leading commercial hot water solutions firm in the state of Texas, with Garey serving as President from 1987 to 1997. While leading the family business, he also co-owned Rollfing Plumbing Company, which specialized in commercial and multifamily hot water system repair and equipment retrofit, from 1994 to 1997.
With over 45 years of experience leading successful companies in the plumbing and air conditioning industry, Garey guides TEAL’s management team with innovative business-building strategies to support the group’s goal of providing expert service and support to property executives nationwide.
In addition to his decades of experience and family legacy in the hot water industry, he sits on the Board of Directors for Willbanks & Associates, Inc. He’s also involved with the global leadership network YPO, as well as the philanthropic efforts of Young Life, In God’s Heart, Connections Family Services, Marfa Food Bank, and Hearts of Lebanon. In his free time, Garey enjoys outdoor activities and learning about architecture of all types.
